Dachshund owners to dish while their pets dash during invitational

Christina Hennessy

Published 5:23 pm, Tuesday, August 12, 2014

Dachshund owners turn out last year for the Connecticut Yankee Dachshund Club invitational in Trumbull, Conn. The event returns this year to Old Mine Park in Trumbull, Conn., on Saturday, Aug. 16, 2014 from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Learn more about the breed, participate in programs and enjoy many games and contests.
Photo: Contributed Photo

A day for the dogs is planned for this weekend, but it is a particular breed that will be getting the spotlight.

The Connecticut Yankee Dachshund Club will be returning to Old Mine Park in Trumbull on Saturday, Aug. 16, for an informal invitational full of activities, contests, educational opportunities, demonstrations and other social events.

"It's gotten bigger every year," said Janice Kenney, of Monroe, a club board member, of the "fun day," which has taken place for years, with the past five or so in Trumbull.

"It is a day for people who have dachshunds, miniature and standard, to get together and learn more about the breed," Kenney said. "We play musical chairs, hold agility demonstrations, informational clinics, bob for wieners and have a lure course."

These are just some of the activities planned, though. The dogs also will race, going multiple heats until a champion is crowned.

"That is always a big attraction," said Kenney of the racing. "But we have many fun things planned throughout the day."

There are games in which owners and their pets may participate, as well as contests for best trick, tail wag, costume and other skills.

Kenney said for all the activities, the day also is a great opportunity to learn more about the breed and ask questions. Dachshunds, who are categorized as standard or miniature, can be bred in three varieties of coat -- smooth, wirehaired and longhaired. Kenney said all types should be present during the invitational.

"We spend a lot of time educating and talking with the people who come," she said, noting that most of the club members simply enjoy time with their pet while others, such as herself, show their dogs in places such as the Westminster Kennel Club dog show, to which she has gone three times.

Indeed, the invitational might offer newcomers tips as to how best show a dog in competition, which comes in time for the club's American Kennel Club-sanctioned show Sept. 19 in Guilford. Only 100 dachshunds will be admitted.

The Connecticut Yankee Dachshund Club draws its membership from across the state, Kenney said, adding that there will be information during the invitational on how to join.

Pooches also will have a chance to be pampered, since there will be nail clipping services on site (for an additional fee). Kenney said owners may also microchip their pets at the event.

As in years past, owners and spectators alike are encouraged to pack a lunch, bring along chairs and water and get ready to enjoy a day with a breed that the American Kennel Club describes as "clever, lively and courageous."